Reusable diapers

ABSTRACT

A reusable diaper includes forward and rearward waist portions. At least one corner tab may be releasably attachable to the forward and rearward waist portions. The diaper may include at least one pocket configured to receive therein at least a portion of the corner tab. The pocket may be substantially impervious to liquids, such that positioning of the portion of the corner tab in the pocket helps inhibit wicking of liquid through the pocket and into the corner tab. Some embodiments may include first and second sets of interchangeable corner tabs that are releasably attachable to the forward and rearward waist portions. The second set of corner tabs may be sized differently than the first set of corner tabs such that the diaper size is adjustable depending on whether the first or second set of corner tabs are used.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 12/059,844 filed Mar. 31, 2008 (published Sep. 4, 2008 as U.S.2008/0215027), which, in turn, is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 11/518,587 filed Sep. 8, 2006 (now U.S. Pat.7,629,501 issued Dec. 8, 2009). The entire disclosures of each of theabove applications are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to reusable diapers.

BACKGROUND

This section provides background information related to the presentdisclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

Absorbent articles, such as disposable diapers, training pants, orincontinence pads, generally have an absorbent core intended for singleuse only. Once the absorbent core component is saturated with bodilydischarges, such as urine, the entire absorbent article is usuallydiscarded. Oftentimes, parts of a disposable diaper or training pantscould be reused. But with the unitary construction, they arenevertheless discarded along with the saturated absorbent cores. Inaddition to the added cost and waste associated with discarding suchproducts, it is often inconvenient to acquire and store quantities ofsuch disposable absorbent articles.

SUMMARY

This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and is not acomprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.

According to various aspects, exemplary embodiments of reusable diapersare disclosed herein. In an exemplary embodiment, a reusable diapergenerally includes forward and rearward waist portions. At least onecorner tab is releasably attachable to the forward and rearward waistportions, such that the corner tab is detachable and completelyseparable from the diaper. There is at least one pocket substantiallyimpervious to liquids, which is configured to receive therein at least aportion of the corner tab when the forward and rearward waist portionsare releasably attached by the corner tab. The positioning of theportion of the corner tab in the pocket helps inhibit wicking of liquidthrough the pocket and into the corner tab.

In another exemplary embodiment, a reusable diaper generally includesforward and rearward waist portions. First and second sets of cornertabs are releasably attachable to the forward and rearward waistportions, such that the second set of corner tabs is interchangeablewith the first set of corner tabs. The second set of corner tabs sizeddifferently than the first set of corner tabs such that the diaper has afirst size when the forward and rearward waist portions are releasablyattached by the first set of corner tabs, and such that the diaper has asecond size different than the first size when the forward and rearwardwaist portions are releasably attached by the second set of corner tabs.

In another exemplary embodiment, a reusable diaper generally includesforward and rearward waist portions. A first pocket is disposed in alateral side portion of the forward waist portion. A second pocket isdisposed in an opposite lateral side portion of the forward waistportion. A third pocket is disposed in a lateral side portion of therearward waist portion. A fourth pocket is disposed in an oppositelateral side portion of the rearward waist portion. First and secondpairs of corner tabs each have front and back end portions releasablyattachable to the respective forward and rearward waist portions withinthe respective first, second, third, and fourth pockets, such that thesecond pair of corner tabs is interchangeable with the first pair ofcorner tabs. The second pair of corner tabs is sized differently thanthe first pair of corner tabs. The corner tabs define portions of thewaist and leg openings of the diaper when releasably attached to theforward and rearward waist portions, such that interchanging the firstand second pairs of corner tabs changes the size of the waist and legopenings of the diaper.

Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the descriptionprovided herein. The description and specific examples in this summaryare intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended tolimit the scope of the present disclosure.

DRAWINGS

The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only ofselected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are notintended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a reusable diaper having apocket opening and a flap according to exemplary embodiments, whereinthe flap is shown in an opened configuration in which the opening intothe pocket is exposed to allow a liquid-absorbent insert to bepositioned within the pocket;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the reusable diaper shown in FIG. 1,wherein the flap is shown in a closed configuration in which the flapsubstantially covers the opening into the pocket and inhibits contactbetween the diaper wearer and the liquid-absorbent insert positionedwithin the pocket;

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the reusable diaper shown in FIGS.1 and 2, wherein the top row of snap members have been snapped into thecorresponding snap members in the middle row thereby reducing thediaper's functional rise or crotch length;

FIG. 4 is an inner view of the reusable diaper shown in FIGS. 1 through3;

FIG. 5 is an inner view of the reusable diaper shown in FIG. 4, whereintabs have been releasably attached to the flap with hook-and-loopfasteners;

FIG. 6 is an outer view of the reusable diaper shown in FIGS. 1 through5;

FIG. 7 is an inner view of another exemplary embodiment of a reusablediaper;

FIG. 8 is an outer view of the reusable diaper shown in FIG. 7;

FIG. 9A is a fragmentary inner view of the reusable diaper shown in FIG.7 illustrating a first seam allowance formed when stitching a firstlayer of a corner region to a flap and an inner layer of the reusablediaper;

FIG. 9B is a view similar to FIG. 9A illustrating the first seamallowance stitched to the first layer of the corner region;

FIG. 9C is a section view taken in a plane including line 9C-9C in FIG.9B;

FIG. 10A is a fragmentary outer view of the reusable diaper shown inFIG. 7 illustrating a second seam allowance formed when stitching asecond layer of a corner region to an outer layer of the reusablediaper;

FIG. 10B is a view similar to FIG. 10A illustrating the second seamallowance stitched to the second layer of the corner region;

FIG. 10C is a section view taken in a plane including line 10C-10C inFIG. 10B;

FIG. 11 is a fragmentary view of a corner region of the reusable diapershown in FIG. 7 illustrating an interior portion of the corner regionwith first and second seam allowances disposed generally within theinterior portion of the corner region;

FIG. 12 is a section view taken in a plane including line 12-12 in FIG.11;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of areusable diaper, and illustrating interchangeable sets of corner tabs ofdifferent sizes that are releasably attachable to the reusable diaperfor adjusting and tailoring the diaper size to the wearer;

FIG. 14 is an inner view of the reusable diaper shown in FIG. 13illustrating the pockets and snap members therein for releasablyattaching the corner tabs to the reusable diaper;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the reusable diaper shown in FIG. 13wherein the longest corner tabs are releasably attached to the reusablediaper without any of the snap members along the diaper's forwardportion snapped together;

FIG. 16 is another perspective view of the reusable diaper shown in FIG.13 wherein the intermediate length corner tabs are releasably attachedto the reusable diaper and the top and middle rows of snap members alongthe diaper's forward portion have been snapped together, which therebyreduces the diaper's functional waist size, leg opening size, andfunctional rise or crotch length as compared to FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is another perspective view of the reusable diaper shown in FIG.13 wherein the shortest corner tabs are releasably attached to thereusable diaper and the top and bottom rows of snap members along thediaper's forward portion have been snapped together, which therebyfurther reduces the diaper's functional waist size, leg opening size,and functional rise or crotch length as compared to that shown in FIG.16;

FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view of the reusable diaper shown inFIG. 13 illustrating the interior pockets of the diaper's outer shell(FIG. 18A) and the opposing sides of the liquid-absorbent pad (FIGS. 18Band 18C), wherein the interior pockets are shown in an openedconfiguration (e.g., pulled back, etc.) to illustrate the exemplaryattachment means within the interior pockets by which theliquid-absorbent pad's opposite end portions may be releasable attachedwithin the interior pockets of the outer shell;

FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of the reusable diaper shown inFIG. 18 with the liquid-absorbent pad shown releasable attached to theouter shell within the interior pockets and partly folded over itself,which thereby reduces the functional length of the liquid-absorbent pad;

FIG. 20 is another exploded perspective view of the reusable diapershown in FIG. 18 with the liquid-absorbent pad again shown releasableattached to the outer shell within the interior pockets and partlyfolded over itself but to a greater degree of overlap than that shown inFIG. 19, which thereby further reduces the functional length of theliquid-absorbent pad as compared to that shown in FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the reusable diaper shown in FIG. 1,wherein the portions of the liquid-absorbent pad within the interiorpockets are substantially covered by the outermost portions or flaps ofthe interior pockets, which thereby inhibits contact between thosecovered portions of the liquid-absorbent pad and the diaper wearer ordiaper changer;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view illustrating an interchangeable corner tabhaving different snap options by which the corner tab may be releasablyattached to a reusable diaper thereby providing different functionallengths for the corner tab according to another exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a reusable diaper having the corner tabshown in FIG. 22, wherein the corner tab is releasably attached via theoutermost snap members which are snapped to corresponding snap memberswithin the pockets of the reusable diaper, thereby providing the cornertap with the longest of the functional length options; and

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the reusable diaper shown in FIG. 23,wherein the corner tab is shown releasably attached to the reusablediaper via the corner tab's innermost snap members thereby providing thecorner tab with the shortest of the functional length options and alsoreducing the diaper's functional waist size as compared to FIG. 23.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference tothe accompanying drawings.

According to various aspects, exemplary embodiments of reusable diapersare disclosed herein. In an exemplary embodiment, a reusable diapergenerally includes forward and rearward waist portions. At least onecorner tab is releasably attachable to the forward and rearward waistportions, such that the corner tab is detachable and completelyseparable from the diaper. There is at least one pocket substantiallyimpervious to liquids, which is configured to receive therein at least aportion of the corner tab when the forward and rearward waist portionsare releasably attached by the corner tab. The positioning of theportion of the corner tab in the pocket helps inhibit wicking of liquidthrough the pocket and into the corner tab.

In another exemplary embodiment, a reusable diaper generally includesforward and rearward waist portions. First and second sets of cornertabs are releasably attachable to the forward and rearward waistportions, such that the second set of corner tabs is interchangeablewith the first set of corner tabs. The second set of corner tabs sizeddifferently than the first set of corner tabs such that the diaper has afirst size when the forward and rearward waist portions are releasablyattached by the first set of corner tabs, and such that the diaper has asecond size different than the first size when the forward and rearwardwaist portions are releasably attached by the second set of corner tabs.

In another exemplary embodiment, a reusable diaper generally includesforward and rearward waist portions. A first pocket is disposed in alateral side portion of the forward waist portion. A second pocket isdisposed in an opposite lateral side portion of the forward waistportion. A third pocket is disposed in a lateral side portion of therearward waist portion. A fourth pocket is disposed in an oppositelateral side portion of the rearward waist portion. First and secondpairs of corner tabs each have front and back end portions releasablyattachable to the respective forward and rearward waist portions withinthe respective first, second, third, and fourth pockets, such that thesecond pair of corner tabs is interchangeable with the first pair ofcorner tabs. The second pair of corner tabs is sized differently thanthe first pair of corner tabs. The corner tabs define portions of thewaist and leg openings of the diaper when releasably attached to theforward and rearward waist portions, such that interchanging the firstand second pairs of corner tabs changes the size of the waist and legopenings of the diaper.

In another exemplary embodiment, a reusable diaper generally includes aninner layer configured to wick moisture from the diaper wearer's bodyand an outer layer configured to be substantially liquid-impervious. Atleast one pocket is defined generally by a space between the inner andouter layers. The at least one pocket is configured to receive at leastone liquid-absorbent insert therein. The diaper also includes at leastone slit in the inner layer that provides access into the space betweenthe inner and outer layers defining the at least one pocket. At leastone flap is provided that is positionable in an open configuration or aclosed position. When the at least one flap is in the openconfiguration, the at least one slit is exposed and allows access intothe at least one pocket. In the closed configuration, however, the atleast one flap substantially covers the at least one slit and inhibitscontact between the diaper wearer and at least one liquid-absorbentinsert positioned within the at least one pocket. When closed, the atleast one flap may also inhibit the inadvertent or accidental removal ofthe at least one liquid-absorbent insert from the at least one pocket.

In another exemplary embodiment, a reusable diaper generally includesfirst and second waist portions. The first waist portion includes cornerregions that are releasably attachable to the second waist portion. Thecorner regions may be resiliently stretchable to permit at least someadjustability to the diaper's functional waist size as defined by thefirst and second waist portions when the first waist portion isreleasably attached to the second waist portion.

In another exemplary embodiment, a reusable diaper generally includes aforward portion, a rearward portion, and a crotch portion. The reusablediaper further includes at least a three-by-three array of snap membersalong the forward portion that allows selective adjustment to thediaper's functional rise or crotch length. The array includes at least afirst row of at least three spaced-apart snap members (e.g., plasticmale snap members, plastic female snap members, combinations thereof,etc.). The snaps in the first row are vertically spaced from and alignedwith corresponding snap members (e.g., plastic female snap members,plastic male snap members, combinations thereof, etc.) in at least twoother rows of the array. For example, snap members in a first or top rowcan be snapped together with the corresponding snap members in thesecond or middle row to decrease the diaper's functional rise or crotchlength. Or, for example, the snap members of the top row can be snappedtogether with the corresponding snap members in a third or bottom row toeven further decrease the diaper's functional rise or crotch length.Advantageously, having at least three columns of snaps may provide amore snug and precise fit to the diaper wearer, for example, by reducingthe extent to which the crotch portion hangs down below the wearer. Forexample, the three-by-three arrangement can eliminate or at least reducethe bulge in the middle front of the diaper that typically occurs whenthere are only two columns of snaps due to the fabric bulging outbetween the two snaps. The three-by-three snap arrangement may enablethe diaper to be more of a one-size fits all cloth diaper. Alternativeembodiments may include more or less than three rows of snaps, more orless than three columns of snaps, and/or different connector membersbesides snaps.

In some embodiments, a reusable diaper may include at least one innerliner or layer. The at least one inner layer can be configured to wickmoisture from the diaper wearer's body generally towards the at leastone liquid-absorbent insert within the at least one pocket. The reusablediaper may further comprise at least one outer layer or liner along atleast an outer portion of the reusable diaper. The at least one outerlayer can be substantially liquid-impervious to thereby resist wickingof moisture through the at least one outer layer. In some preferredembodiments, the outer layer is formed of polyester, and the inner layeris formed of suede cloth. Alternatively, other suitable materials may beused for the inner and/or outer layers.

In some embodiments, there may be provided a plurality of replacementliquid-absorbent inserts. In such embodiments, an existingliquid-absorbent insert may be removed from a pocket after the inserthas become saturated. One of the replacement inserts can be positionedwithin the pocket after the diaper has been washed or laundered.

Other embodiments of a reusable diaper may include a first waist portionhaving corner regions with tabs releasably attachable to a second waistportion. The corner regions may be resiliently stretchable to permitsome adjustability to the functional waist size of the reusable diaperas defined by the first and second waist portions. In some embodiments,the corner regions may be formed from 95% polyester and 5% Lycra.Alternatively, the corner regions may be formed using other suitablematerials. The tabs may also be releasably attachable to an interiorportion of the diaper (e.g., to a back side of a flap, etc.) forretaining the corner regions and tabs within the interior of thereusable diaper. A wide range of attachment means may be used forreleasably attaching the tabs to the second waist region and/or to aninterior portion of the diaper, such as hook-and-loop fasteners, snaps,buttons, adhesives, combinations thereof, etc.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 through 6, there is shown an exemplaryembodiment of a reusable diaper 100 embodying one or more aspects of thepresent disclosure. As shown, the reusable diaper 100 includes a firstwaist portion or region 110, a second waist portion or region 112, and acrotch portion or region 114 disposed generally between the first andsecond waist portions 110, 112. The first waist portion 110 includescorner regions 116 and 118. The second waist portion 112 includes cornerregions 120 and 122.

As shown in FIG. 2, the contours of the corner regions 116, 118, 120,122 and crotch portion 114 cooperatively define leg openings 124 and126. For example, leg opening 124 is cooperatively defined by the curveextending from the first waist portion's corner region 116 along thecrotch portion 114 to the second waist portion's corner region 120. Inaddition, the other leg opening 126 is defined by the curve extendingfrom the first waist portion's corner region 118 along the crotchportion 114 to the second waist portion's corner region 122. In thisillustrated embodiment, the leg openings 124 and 126 may furthercomprise elastic disposed adjacent the periphery of the leg openings 124and 126, for example, to help draw and hold the diaper 100 against thewearer's legs.

With continued reference to FIG. 1, the reusable diaper 100 includes apocket 102 defined generally by the space between the diaper's outerlayer 158 and inner layer 160. The diaper 100 also includes an openingor slit 104 in the inner layer 160 that allows access into the pocket102. The reusable diaper 100 further includes a flap 108 positionable ineither an open configuration (FIGS. 1 and 4) or a closed configuration(FIGS. 2 and 5).

When the flap 108 is in the open configuration, the slit 104 is exposedand allows access into the pocket 102. In the closed configuration,however, the flap 108 substantially covers the slit 104 and inhibitscontact between the skin or clothes of the diaper wearer and theliquid-absorbent insert 106 positioned within the pocket 102.Additionally, closing the flap 108 may also inhibit the inadvertent oraccidental removal of the insert 106 from the pocket 102. In alternativeembodiments, a suitable attachment means may be employed for releasablyretaining the flap in the closed position, such as hook-and-loopfasteners, snaps, adhesives, buttons, clasps, magnets, combinationsthereof, etc.

The flap 108 may be formed from a wide variety of materials. In somepreferred embodiments, the flap 108 is formed from one or more fabricmaterials, such as suede cloth, etc. In such embodiments, the flap 108and the inner layer 160 may formed from the same materials.Alternatively, the flap 108 and inner layer 160 may be formed fromdifferent materials.

The flap 108 may be attached to the reusable diaper 100 using a widevariety of attachment methods, such as stitching, sewing, adhesiveattachment, integrally formed, etc. In some preferred embodiments, theflap 108 is attached to the inner layer 160 along the diaper's rearportion by stitching or sewing. In such embodiments, the flap 108 andopening 104 into the pocket 102 are not readily accessible by the diaperwearer.

As shown in FIG. 1, a liquid-absorbent insert 106 can be received withinthe pocket 102 via the slit 104. The insert 106 is preferably configuredto absorb and store liquids therein. The insert 106 may comprise one ormore of microfibers, hemp, hydrocolloid materials, or any other suitablematerial configured to absorb and store liquids therein.

In this particular embodiment, the insert 106 is shown with snap members107 and 109. These snap members 107, 109 can be snapped together orunsnapped to thereby allow selective adjustment to the length of theinsert 106. For example, the snap member 107 can be snapped togetherwith the snap member 109 to decrease the insert's length. Or, forexample, the snap members 107 and 109 can be unsnapped to increase theinsert's length. This lengthwise adjustability can allow the insert 106to more precisely fit within the pocket 102, for example, when thefunctional rise or crotch length of the diaper is changed by way of thearray of snaps 180 (as described in more detail below). Alternativeembodiments may include an insert having more or less snaps and/or snapsin other arrangements to accommodate lengthwise adjustability to theinsert. Further embodiments may include an insert having a wide range ofother suitable fastening means or fastening systems besides snaps, suchas adhesives, buttons, clasps, Velcro® hook and loop closures, magnets,elastic straps, adjustable straps, combinations thereof, etc.

In the illustrated embodiment, the pocket 104 is defined generally bythe space between the diaper's outer layer 158 and inner layer 160. Thepocket's periphery or perimeter is defined to extend generally fromabout the first waist portion 110 along the first and second edgeportions 154, 156 of the crotch region 114 to about the second waistportion 112. Stitching (or other suitable means) may be used to securethe perimeter or periphery of the pocket 102. For example, theillustrated embodiment has the pocket periphery formed generally by thesame stitching used to attach the outer and inner layers 160, 158 toeach other.

A wide range of suitable materials may be used for the inner and outerlayers 160, 158. The inner layer 160 is preferably configured to wickmoisture generally away from the diaper wearer towards the insert 106within the pocket 102. The outer layer 158 is preferably configured tobe substantially liquid-impervious to thereby resist wicking of moisturethrough the outer layer 158. In one preferred embodiment, the outerlayer 158 is formed of polyester, and the inner layer 160 is formed ofsuede cloth. Alternatively, other suitable materials may be used for theinner liner and/or outer layers 160, 158.

Accordingly, the reusable diaper 100 may be put on a wearer with theinner layer 160 positioned against the skin of the wearer. In whichcase, the inner layer 160 can wick moisture (e.g., bodily discharge,urine, sweat, etc.) through the inner layer 160 to the liquid-absorbentinsert 106 within the pocket 102. When the insert 106 has becomesaturated, the insert 106 may be removed and then washed or launderedalong with or separately from the diaper 100. After the diaper 100 andinsert 106 have been satisfactorily washed and dried, the insert 106 maybe repositioned within the pocket 102 of the diaper 100. At which point,the diaper 100 may be reused.

In some preferred embodiments, the first waist portion's corner regions116 and 118 are resiliently stretchable. This feature allows at leastsome adjustability to the diaper's functional waist size as defined bythe first and second waist portions 110 and 112 when the first waistportion 110 is releasably attached to the second waist portion 112. Insome embodiments, the corner regions may be formed from 95% polyesterand 5% Lycra. Alternatively, the corner regions may be formed usingother suitable materials.

With reference to FIG. 2, the reusable diaper 100 includes tabs 130, 132associated with the first waist portion 110. In addition to stretchablecorner regions, some embodiments also configure the tabs 130, 132 to beresiliently elastic or stretchable. This, in turn, can permit furtheradjustability to the diaper's functional waist size. In yet otherembodiments, only the tabs 130 and 132 are resiliently elastic orstretchable. In further embodiments, however, the tabs 130, 132 may beessentially inelastic or stretchable.

The tabs 130, 132 may include respective hook-and-loop fastener portions144, 146, which, in turn, are releasably attachable to correspondinghook-and-loop fastener portions of the second waist portion 112. Asshown in FIG. 2, the second waist portion 112 includes an elongate strip134 having hook-and-loop fasteners portions extending along the lengththereof. Accordingly, the hook-and-loop fastener portions 144, 146 ofthe tabs 130, 132, respectively, can be releasably attachable atdifferent locations along the elongate strip 134, which allows the firstwaist portion 110 to be adjustably secured to the second waist portion112 when positioned around a wearer of the reusable diaper 100.

Having resiliently elastic or stretchable corner regions 116, 118(and/or tabs 130, 132 in some embodiments) with the ability to stretchcan allow for tailoring of the diaper's functional waist size to thewearer's actual waist size. For example, the diaper's functional waistsize may be selectively tailored for the wearer by stretching the cornerregions 116, 118, and then releasably attaching the tabs 130, 132 to theelongate strip 134 at particular attachment locations along the lengthof the elongate strip 134. In this exemplary manner, the diaper'sfunctional waist size can be selectively adjusted, for example, toprovide a relatively snug fit about the waist of the wearer (e.g.,infant, toddler, adult, etc.), and preferably without being toouncomfortably tight about the wearer's thighs. Alternative embodimentsmay include other suitable means for allowing selective adjustment tothe functional or operational waist size of the reusable diaper. Inaddition, other suitable fastening means or fastening systems may alsobe employed for releasably attaching the diaper's first and second waistportions to each other, such as different hook-and-loop fastenerarrangements (e.g., two or more spaced-apart discrete patches along thesecond waist portion instead of a single elongate strip, etc.),adhesives, snaps, buttons, clasps, Velcro® hook and loop closures,magnets, combinations thereof, etc.

In some embodiments, the tabs 130, 132 may be releasably attachable toan interior portion of the diaper for retaining the corner regions andtabs within the interior of the reusable diaper. As shown in FIG. 2, thetabs 130, 132 include hook-and-loop fastener portions 144, 146releasably attachable to corresponding hook-and-loop fastener portions178 of the flap 108. Releasably attaching the tabs 130 and 132 to theflap 108 by way of the hook-and-loop fastener portions 144, 146, 178(FIG. 5) helps retain the tabs 130 and 132 and corner regions 116 and118 within an interior of the diaper 100. This, in turn, may help toprevent or at least reduce snagging of the tabs 130, 132 when thereusable diaper 100 is being washed or laundered. Alternatively, a widerange of other attachment means may be used for releasably attaching thetabs 130, 132 to an interior portion of the diaper, such ashook-and-loop fasteners, snaps, buttons, adhesives, combinationsthereof, etc.

In some embodiments, the tabs 130, 132 may be releasably attachable toeach other. For example, one of the tabs 130 or 132 may have a forwardsurface with hook-and-loop fasteners that are releasably attachable tohook-and-look fasteners on a rearward surface of the other tab 130 or132. Alternatively, other suitable fastening means can be employed toimplement this feature.

With reference to FIG. 6, the reusable diaper 100 includes snaps thatallow for customization or adjustment to the diaper's functional rise orcrotch length. This feature may help create an even better or snuggerfit to the diaper wearer. For example, the snaps can allow for areduction in the diaper's functional rise or crotch length so as toreduce the extent to which the crotch portion 114 hangs down below thewearer.

As shown in FIG. 6, the diaper 100 includes a three-by-three array 180of snap members. The snap members comprising the three-by-three array180 are horizontally arranged and aligned in the three rows andvertically arranged and aligned in the three columns. Advantageously,having at least three columns may provide a more snug and precise fit tothe diaper wearer, for example, by reducing the extent to which thecrotch portion hangs down below the wearer. The three-by-threearrangement can eliminate or at least reduce the bulge in the middlefront of the diaper that typically occurs when there are only twocolumns of snaps due to the fabric bulging out between the two snaps.The three-by-three snap arrangement may enable the diaper to be more ofa one-size fits all cloth diaper.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first row includes three spaced-apartmale snap members 182. The second or middle row includes threespaced-apart female snap members 184. The third row includesthree-spaced apart female snap members 186. The first row of snapmembers 182 is vertically spaced from and aligned with the correspondingsnap members 184, 186 in the two other rows of the array 180. Each rowof snap members includes a first snap member located generally centrallyacross a width of the diaper 100, a second snap member located towardone lateral side of the diaper 100, and a third snap member locatedtoward another lateral side of the diaper 100

The male snap members 182 can be snapped together with either the femalesnap members 184 of the second row, or the female snap members 186 ofthe third row. For example, the male snap members 182 in the first rowcan be snapped together with the corresponding female snap members 184in the second or middle row to decrease the diaper's functional rise orcrotch length. To decrease the diaper's functional rise and crotchlength to an even greater extent, the male snap members 182 of the firstrow may instead be snapped together with the corresponding female snapmembers 186 in the third row. Accordingly, these snap options thusprovide three different configurations for the diaper 100. That is, thefunctional rise or crotch length of the reusable diaper 100 can bechanged by selectively choosing whether to engage the male snap members182 with the female snap members 184 or the female snap members 184, orby simply choosing to do neither.

In some preferred embodiments, the snap members 182, 184, 186 areplastic. Alternatively, the snap members can be formed from othermaterials, which are preferably relatively lightweight and durable towithstand repeated laundry cycles.

In alternative embodiments, a reusable diaper may include more or lesssnap options and/or snap members in other arrangements than what isshown in FIG. 6. For example, another embodiment may include two rows ofmale snap members with only one row of female snap members. As anotherexample embodiment, a diaper may include a row having both male andfemale snap members. Additional examples include diapers having more orless than three rows of snap members and/or more or less than threecolumns of snap members. Still further embodiments may include a widerange of other suitable fastening means or fastening systems besidessnaps, such as adhesives, buttons, clasps, Velcro® hook and loopclosures, magnets, elastic straps, adjustable straps, combinationsthereof, etc.

In some embodiments, a reusable diaper may also include a foldable frontportion along the second waist portion. This foldable front portion maybe folded down, for example, to help keep the umbilical area of thediaper wearer clean.

FIGS. 7-12 illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a reusable diaper(indicated generally at 200) embodying one or more aspects of thepresent disclosure. As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the reusable diaper 200generally includes a first waist portion 210 (e.g., a rearward waistportion, etc.), a second waist portion 212 (e.g., a forward waistportion, etc.), and a crotch portion or region 214 disposed generallybetween the first and second waist portions 210, 212. The first waistportion 210 includes corner regions 216, 218 which are releasablyattachable to the second waist portion 212 to secure the reusable diaper200 in a desired position. More particularly, tabs 230, 232 of therespective corner regions 216, 218 are releasably attachable (e.g., viacorresponding hook-and-loop fasteners, etc.) to an elongate strip 234 ofthe second waist portion 212 (FIG. 8) to secure the diaper in a desiredposition (e.g., around a wearer, with the wearer generally in contactwith an inner layer 260 of the reusable diaper 200, etc.).

The corner regions 216, 218 of the first waist portion 210 may beresiliently stretchable. This feature allows for at least someadjustability of the diaper's functional waist size as defined by thefirst and second waist portions 210, 212 when the first waist portion210 is releasably attached to the second waist portion 212. Moreover,the resiliently stretchable corner regions 216, 218 may be substantiallyimpervious to fluids. For example, the resiliently stretchable cornerregions 216, 218 may be at least partially coated, treated, etc. withdurable water repellant to make them substantially impervious toliquids. Any suitable durable water repellant may be used within thescope of the present disclosure. In other exemplary embodiments,reusable diapers may include resiliently stretchable corner regionshaving other suitable materials, coatings, etc. applied thereto to makethe resiliently stretchable corner regions substantially impervious toliquids.

With continued reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, the reusable diaper 200 alsoincludes an outer layer 258 and the inner layer 260. The outer layer 258and the inner layer 260 may broadly be viewed as defining at least partof the first and second waist portions 210, 212. The outer layer 258 maybe configured to be substantially liquid-impervious to thereby resistwicking of moisture through the outer layer 258, and may be formed, forexample, of polyester, nylon, spandex, combinations thereof, etc. Theinner layer 260 may be configured to wick moisture generally away, forexample, from a diaper wearer, and may be formed, for example, of suedecloth, polyester suede cloth, micro fleece, other forms of fabricdesigned to wick moisture, combinations thereof, etc. A pocket 202 isdefined generally by the space between the diaper's outer layer 258 andinner layer 260. The pocket 202 is configured (e.g., sized, shaped,constructed, etc.) to receive at least one liquid-absorbent insert 206therein, for example, for help in absorbing and storing liquids (e.g.,moisture wicked away from a diaper wearer, etc.). An opening or slit 204is formed in the inner layer 260 to allow access into the pocket 202,and a flap 208 coupled generally to the first waist portion 210 can bepositioned to cover the slit 204 and help retain the liquid-absorbentinsert 206 within the pocket 202 as desired.

The reusable diaper 200 may further include one or more fluid-resistantregions that, for example, may help resist wicking of moisture throughthe diaper 200 past the one or more fluid-resistant regions. In theillustrated reusable diaper 200, the inner layer 260 includes afluid-resistant region disposed adjacent the second waist portion 212.More particularly in the illustrated reusable diaper 200, and as bestshown in FIG. 7, the fluid-resistant region includes a strip 288 coupled(e.g., seamed, stitched, etc.) to both the inner layer 260 and the outerlayer 258. Here, the fluid-resistant strip 288 may be viewed as definingat least part of the first waist portion 212. The fluid-resistant strip288 extends generally across a width of the inner layer 260substantially from one corner region 220 of the second waist portion 212to another corner region 222 of the second waist portion 212. This maysubstantially resist wicking of moisture through the inner layer 260past the fluid-resistant strip 288. It should be appreciated that a widerange of suitable materials, coatings, laminates, etc. may be used forthe fluid-resistant strip 288, including, for example, polyestermaterials, durable water repellant coatings, etc.

As previously stated, the one or more fluid-resistant regions (e.g., thefluid-resistant strip 288, etc.) of the illustrated reusable diaper 200may help resist wicking of moisture through the diaper 200 past the oneor more fluid-resistant regions. In the illustrated embodiment, forexample, the fluid-resistant strip 288 is disposed adjacent the secondwaist portion 212 and may help prevent wicking of moisture from thereusable diaper 200 (e.g., from the liquid-absorbent insert 206 receivedwithin the pocket 202 of the reusable diaper 200, from the inner layer260 of the reusable diaper 200, etc.) to a shirt, blanket, article ofbedding, etc. that may come into contact with a part of the first waistportion 212 (e.g., an inner part of the first waist portion 212, etc.).In other exemplary embodiments, reusable diapers may include innerlayers having fluid-resistant regions shaped differently than disclosedherein; having fluid-resistant regions disposed, located, etc.differently than disclosed herein; having fluid-resistant regions withone or more separated parts; etc. For example, in one exemplaryembodiment, fluid-resistant regions may be disposed adjacent one or moreof waist portions, leg regions, etc. of reusable diapers. In oneexemplary embodiment, fluid-resistant regions are disposed adjacent bothfirst and second waist portions of a reusable diaper.

With additional reference now to FIGS. 9-12, the resiliently stretchablecorner regions 216, 218 of the first waist portion 210 of the reusablediaper 200 will be described. FIGS. 9-12 illustrate the resilientlystretchable corner region 216 with it understood that a description ofthe resiliently stretchable corner region 218 would be substantially thesame (similar reference numbers are thus used in the figures forcorresponding parts of the resiliently stretchable corner regions 216,218). As shown, the resiliently stretchable corner region 216 includes afirst layer 290 and a second layer 291, which are coupled together todefine an interior region/portion 292 (FIGS. 11 and 12) of the cornerregion 216. In the illustrated embodiment, the first layer 290 and thesecond layer 291 are coupled via stitches. Alternatively, other suitablemethods, materials, etc. may be used to couple the first and secondlayers 290, 291 together to define the interior portion 292 (e.g.,epoxy, hot-melt processes, etc.).

As best shown in FIGS. 7 and 9A-9C, the first layer 290 of theillustrated corner region 216 is also coupled to the flap 208 and theinner layer 260 of the reusable diaper 200. To do so, edge margins ofthe first layer 290, the flap 208, and the inner layer 260 may first begenerally aligned such that the first layer 290, the flap 208, and theinner layer 260 are in a generally overlapped position (FIG. 9A). Astitch 293 may then be positioned through the first layer 290, the flap208, and the inner layer 260 adjacent their generally aligned edgemargins to couple them together. This defines a first seam allowance 294between the stitch 293 and the edge margins of the first layer 290, theflap 208, and the inner layer 260. The first layer 290 may then befolded at the stitch 293 so as to overlap the first seam allowance 294.And a top-stitch 295 may then be positioned through the folded firstlayer 290 and the first seam allowance 294 (FIGS. 9B and 9C) to couplethe first seam allowance 294 to the first layer 290.

As best shown in FIGS. 8 and 10A-10C, the second layer 291 of the cornerregion 216 is also coupled to the outer layer 258 of the reusable diaper200. To do so, edge margins of the second layer 291 and the outer layer258 may first be generally aligned such that the second layer 291 andthe outer layer 258 are in a generally overlapped position (FIG. 10A). Astitch 296 may then be positioned through the second layer 291 and theouter layer 258 adjacent their generally aligned edge margins to couplethem together. This defines a second seam allowance 297 between thestitch 296 and the edge margins of the second layer 291 and the outerlayer 258. The second layer 291 may then be folded at the stitch 296 soas to overlap the second seam allowance 297. And a top-stitch 298 maythen be positioned through the folded second layer 291 and the secondseam allowance 297 (FIGS. 10B and 10C) to couple the second seamallowance 297 to the second layer 291.

It should be appreciated that at least part of the flap 208, the innerlayer 260, and the outer layer 258 may be coupled together before thefirst and second layers 290, 291 of the corner region 216 are coupledthereto.

Alternatively, the first and second layers 290, 291 of the corner region216 may be coupled to the respective flap 208, inner layer 260, andouter layer 258 of the reusable diaper 200 before the flap 208, innerlayer 260, and outer layer 258 are coupled together within the scope ofthe present disclosure. In addition in other exemplary embodiments,three or more stitches may be used to couple first and second layers ofcorner regions to respective flaps, inner layers, and outer layers ofreusable diapers. In still other exemplary embodiments, reusable diapersmay have corner regions coupled thereto other than by stitching (e.g.,by epoxy, by hot-melt processes, etc.).

With particular reference now to FIGS. 11 and 12, the first and secondseam allowances 294, 297 (when coupled to the respective first andsecond layers 290, 291 of the corner region 216) are positionedgenerally within the interior portion 292 of the corner region 216. Inthis position, the first and second seam allowances 294, 297 each extendgenerally away from the respective outer layer 258 and inner layer 260of the reusable diaper 200 (and away from the pocket 202 formed betweenthe outer layer 258 and the inner layer 260). This may help inhibitwicking of liquid through the first and second seam allowances 294, 297to the corner region 216. For example, in the illustrated reusablediaper 200, moisture moving through the reusable diaper 200 (e.g.,through the liquid-absorbent insert 206 received within the pocket 202formed between the outer and inner layers 258, 260; through the innerlayer 260; along the substantially liquid-impervious outer layer 258;etc.) may approach the corner region 216 (as well as the corner region218) of the first waist portion 210. But the positioning of the firstand second seam allowances 294, 297 generally facing away from themoisture transporting regions of the reusable diaper 200 (e.g., theliquid-absorbent insert 206; the inner layer 260; along thesubstantially liquid-impervious outer layer 258; etc.) may help inhibitthe moisture approaching the corner region 216 (as well as the cornerregion 218) from actually entering and thus wetting the corner region216. The moisture may not substantially move into contact with the firstand/or second seam allowances 294, 297 and thus may not enter the cornerregions 216 and/or 218. Thus, the first and second seam allowances 294,297 are uniquely positioned generally away from the moisture regions ofthe reusable diaper 200 so as to help inhibit wicking of liquid into thecorner regions 216, 218.

FIGS. 13-21 illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a reusable diaper(indicated generally at 300) embodying one or more aspects of thepresent disclosure. As shown in FIG. 13, there are interchangeable setsof corner tabs 317 of different sizes, which are releasably attachableto the reusable diaper 300 for adjusting and tailoring the diaper sizeto the wearer (e.g., one size fits all style, etc.), for example, toprovide a relatively snug fit about the waist and leg openings of thewearer (e.g., infant, toddler, adult, etc.).

The corner tabs 317 include first and second opposite end portions 319and 321 having spaced-apart female snap members 331, 333, respectively.These snap members 331, 331 may be snapped to corresponding male snapmembers 323, 325 respectively within forward and rearward pockets 303,305 of the reusable diaper 300 as shown by FIGS. 15 through 17. In thisexample, the forward pockets 303 are closed end pockets disposed in theopposite lateral side portions of the forward waist portion 312, whilethe rearward pockets 305 are closed end pockets disposed in the oppositelateral side portions of the rearward waist portion 310. The reusablediaper 300 also includes a crotch portion 314 disposed generally betweenthe first and second waist portions 310, 312. Other embodiments mayinclude one or more pockets at other locations.

When releasably attached to the diaper 300, the corner tabs 317 definepart of the waist of the diaper 300. Thus, selecting and releasablyattaching a shorter corner tab 317 will reduce the functional waist ascompared to the functional waist size when a longer tab 317 is used.Similarly, selecting and releasably attaching a shorter corner tab 317will reduce the leg opening size as compared to the leg opening sizewhen a longer tab 317 is used, as the corner tabs 317 include lowercurved or contoured portions that defines part of the generally curvedleg openings. Accordingly, the functional size of the waist and legopenings of the diaper 300 may be adjusted, changed, or tailoreddepending on which of length of corner tab 317 is selected and attachedto the diaper 300.

With continued reference to FIGS. 15-17, FIG. 15 illustrates thereusable diaper 300 with the longest set of corner tabs 317 from FIG. 13releasably attached to the reusable diaper 300 without any of the snapmembers 382, 384, 386 along the diaper's forward portion snappedtogether. By comparison, FIG. 16 illustrates the reusable diaper 300with the intermediate length corner tabs 317 releasably attached to thereusable diaper 300 and with the top and middle rows of snap members382, 384 along the diaper's forward portion snapped together, such thatthe diaper's functional waist size, leg opening size, and rise or crotchlength is reduced when compared to FIG. 15. By way of furthercomparison, FIG. 17 illustrates the reusable diaper 300 with theshortest set of corner tabs 317 releasably attached to the reusablediaper 300 and with the top and bottom rows of snap members 382, 386along the diaper's forward portion snapped together, such that thediaper's functional waist size, leg opening size, and rise or crotchlength is even further reduced than what is shown in FIG. 16.

The size of the corner tabs 317 may be varied depending, for example, onwhether the diaper is intended for use by an adult or toddler. In oneexample embodiment, first and second sets of interchangeable corner tabsare provided. In this example, each corner tab of the first set whenunstretched may have an overall length of about 132 millimeters with adistance of about 99 millimeters separating the columns of snaps on theopposite end portions of the unstretched corner tab. But when the cornertabs of the first set are fully stretched each tab has an overall lengthof about 232 millimeters with a distance of about 200 millimetersseparating the columns of snaps on the opposite end portions of thefully stretched corner tab. Also in this example, each corner tab of thesecond, shorter set when unstretched may have an overall length of about80 millimeters with a distance of about 48 millimeters separating thecolumns of snaps on the opposite end portions of the unstretched cornertab. But when the corner tabs of the second set are fully stretched eachtab has an overall length of about 135 millimeters with a distance ofabout 101 millimeters separating the columns of snaps on the oppositeend portions of the fully stretched corner tab.

Accordingly, interchanging the first and second sets of tabs providesabout 304 millimeter maximum variance in the waist size of the diaper asdetermined by the total length separating the columns of snaps of thelonger tabs when fully stretched (2×200 millimeters) and subtractingtherefrom the total length separating the columns of snaps of theshorter tabs when unstretched (2×48 millimeters). The dimensions in thisparagraph are provided herein for illustrative purposes only. Theparticular dimensions and values provided are not intended to limit thescope of the present disclosure. For example, other exemplaryembodiments may include more or less than two sets of tabs (e.g., oneset of tabs (e.g., FIG. 22, etc.), three sets of tabs (e.g., FIG. 13,etc.) and/or tabs having different configurations (e.g., longer,shorter, thicker, thinner, shaped differently, etc.).

The pockets 303, 305 are also configured to receive therein at least aportion of the corner tabs 317 when the forward and rearward waistportions 312, 310 are releasably attached by the corner tabs 317. Thepockets 303, 305 are preferably configured to be substantiallyimpervious to liquids, such that positioning of the end portions 319,321 of the corner tabs 317 in the corresponding pockets 303, 305 helpsinhibit wicking of liquid through the pockets 303, 305 and into thecorner tabs 317. By keeping moisture from wicking to the corner tabs317, the pockets 303, 305 help make changing the diaper 300 lessdisagreeable as the diaper changer will not have to handle moist cornertabs.

In this example, the snap members are plastic. Alternatively, the snapmembers can be formed from other materials, which are preferablyrelatively lightweight and durable to withstand repeated laundry cycles.Alternative embodiments may include corner tabs that include more orless snap members in other arrangements than what is shown in FIG. 13,such as that shown in FIG. 22. As another example, another embodimentmay include male snap members on the corner tabs and female snap memberswithin the pockets of the diaper. As a further example embodiment, thecorner tabs and pockets may each have both male and female snap members.Still further embodiments may include a wide range of other suitablefastening means or fastening systems besides snaps, such as adhesives,buttons, clasps, Velcro® hook and loop closures, magnets, elasticstraps, adjustable straps, combinations thereof, etc. Still yet furtherembodiments may include one of the end portions of a corner tab fixedlyattached within a pocket and/or a corner tab that is foldable overitself to reduce the functional length of the corner tab.

The corner tabs 317 may be resiliently stretchable to permit someadjustability to the functional waist size of the reusable diaper asdefined by the first and second waist portions 310, 312. In someembodiments, the corner tabs 317 may be formed from 95% polyester and 5%Lycra, which allows the corner tabs 317 to be stretchable and tomaintain a flat profile when stretched or unstretched. Alternatively,the corner tab 317 may be formed using other suitable materials.

FIG. 18A illustrates the interior pockets 309, 311 of the diaper's outershell or layer 358 in which the end portions 313, 315 of theliquid-absorbent pad 306 as shown by FIGS. 19-21. In FIGS. 18-20, theoutermost portion or flaps 308 of the pockets 309, 311 are illustratedpulled back or opened so as to illustrate the exemplary manner by whichthe end portions 313, 315 of the liquid-absorbent pad 306 may bepositioned within and releasable attached within the interior pockets309, 311 of the outer shell 358.

As shown in FIG. 21, the end portions 313, 315 of the liquid-absorbentpad 306 within the interior pockets 309, 311 are substantially coveredby the outermost portions or flaps 308 of the interior pockets 309, 311.This inhibits contact between those covered portions 313, 315 of theliquid-absorbent pad 306 and the diaper wearer or diaper changer. Also,in this example, the pockets' outermost portions or flaps 308 alsosubstantially cover the Velcro® hook and loop closures 339, 341, 343,and 345 and thus inhibit contact between the skin or clothes of thediaper wearer and the Velcro® hook and loop closures. These flaps 308may also help hold the liquid-absorbent pad 106 in place inside thediaper 300.

The outer shell 358 may be formed from a wide variety of materials. Inthis exemplary embodiment, the outer shell 358 is formed from polyester,such that the outer shell 358 is waterproof and substantiallyliquid-impervious to thereby resist wicking of moisture through theouter layer 358. Alternatively, the outer shell 358 may be formed fromdifferent materials.

The liquid-absorbent pad 306 may be formed from a wide variety ofmaterials that are configured to absorb and store liquids therein. Byway of example, the liquid-absorbent pad 306 may comprise one or more ofmicrofibers, hemp, hydrocolloid materials, or any other suitablematerial configured to absorb and store liquids therein. In someexemplary embodiments, the liquid-absorbent pad 306 is formed from oneor more of organic cotton material, microfiber terry, and/or suedecloth.

In this particular embodiment, the liquid-absorbent pad 306 is shownwith Velcro® hook and loop closure strips 339, 341 on its outer or frontside (FIG. 18B), Velcro® hook and loop closure strips 343, 345 on itsinner or back side (FIG. 18C), and fold lines 347 and 349 (e.g.,stitching, etc.). As shown by FIGS. 19-21, the Velcro® hook and loopclosure strip 345 may be releasably attached to corresponding Velcro®hook and loop closure strip 351 within the pocket 311 of the diaper 300.In addition, any one of the other Velcro® hook and loop closures 339,341, 345 may be selectively attached to the corresponding Velcro® hookand loop closure strip 353 within the pocket 309 of the diaper 300 asshown by FIGS. 19-21.

For example, in FIG. 19, the liquid-absorbent pad's strip 339 isattached to the strip 353 within the pocket 309 after theliquid-absorbent pad 306 has been partly folded over itself along thestitching or fold line 347. Folding the liquid-absorbent pad 306 alongthe fold line 347 reduces the functional length of the liquid-absorbentpad 306. In FIG. 20, the liquid-absorbent pad's strip 341 is attached tothe strip 353 within the pocket 309 after the liquid-absorbent pad 306has been partly folded over itself along the stitching or fold line 349,which creates a greater degree of overlap than that shown in FIG. 19.Accordingly, folding the liquid-absorbent pad 306 along the fold line349 even further reduces the functional length of the liquid-absorbentpad 306. In FIG. 21, the liquid-absorbent pad 306 has not been foldedand its strip 343 is attached to the strip 353 within the pocket 309.This lengthwise adjustability can allow the liquid-absorbent pad 306 tomore precisely fit along the crotch 314 of the diaper 300, for example,when the functional rise or crotch length of the diaper is changed byway of the array of snaps along the forward portion of the diaper 300.Alternative embodiments may include a liquid-absorbent pad having moreor less strips of hook and loop closures in other arrangements toaccommodate lengthwise adjustability to the liquid-absorbent pad.Further embodiments may include a liquid-absorbent pad having a widerange of other suitable fastening means or fastening systems besidesVelcro® hook and loop closures, such as adhesives, buttons, clasps,snaps, magnets, elastic straps, adjustable straps, combinations thereof,etc. Still further embodiments may include a liquid-absorbent padwithout any such lengthwise adjustability.

Accordingly, the reusable diaper 300 may be put on a wearer with theliquid-absorbent pad 306 positioned against the skin of the wearer. Inwhich case, the liquid-absorbent pad 306 can absorb moisture (e.g.,bodily discharge, urine, sweat, etc.). When the liquid-absorbent pad 306has become saturated, the liquid-absorbent pad 306 may be removed andthen washed or laundered along with or separately from the diaper 300.After the diaper 300 and liquid-absorbent pad 306 have beensatisfactorily washed and dried, the liquid-absorbent pad 306 may bereattached to the diaper 300 with an adjusted length as described aboveso as to more precisely fit along the crotch 314 of the diaper 300. Atwhich point, the diaper 300 may be reused.

The snap members 382, 384, 386 of diaper 300 may be substantially thesame as or similar to the snap members 182, 184, 186 of reusable diaper100 described above. As before with diaper 100, the diaper 300 isillustrated with a three-by-three array of snap members such that thesnap members are horizontally arranged and aligned in the three rows andvertically arranged and aligned in the three columns. Advantageously,having at least three columns may provide a more snug and precise fit tothe diaper wearer, for example, by reducing the extent to which thecrotch portion hangs down below the wearer. The three-by-threearrangement can eliminate or at least reduce the bulge in the middlefront of the diaper that typically occurs when there are only twocolumns of snaps due to the fabric bulging out between the two snaps.The three-by-three snap arrangement may enable the diaper to be more ofa one-size fits all cloth diaper.

In alternative embodiments, the reusable diaper 300 may include more orless snap options and/or snap members in other arrangements than what isshown in FIGS. 13-21. For example, another embodiment may include tworows of male snap members with only one row of female snap members. Asanother example embodiment, a diaper may include a row having both maleand female snap members. Additional examples include diapers having moreor less than three rows of snap members and/or more or less than threecolumns of snap members. Still further embodiments may include a widerange of other suitable fastening means or fastening systems besidessnaps, such as adhesives, buttons, clasps, Velcro® hook and loopclosures, magnets, elastic straps, adjustable straps, combinationsthereof, etc.

In some embodiments, the reusable diaper 300 and interchangeable tabs317 may be provided in a package or as a kit. In such embodiments, thepackage may include indicia (e.g., graphic illustrations, instructions,etc.) explaining how the size of the reusable diaper 300 may be adjustedby interchanging the tabs. In yet other embodiments, the tabs 317 may beprovided separately from the reusable diaper 300.

FIG. 22 illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a corner tab 417embodying one or more aspects of the present disclosure. As shown inFIG. 22, the corner tab 417 includes first and second opposite endportions 419 and 421. The first end portion 419 includes two columns ofspaced-apart female snap members 431. The second end portion 421includes three columns of spaced-apart female snap members 433. Thesecolumns of female snap members 431 and 433 provide the corner tab 417with different snap options, such that corner tab 417 may be releasablyattached to a reusable diaper 400 (FIGS. 23 and 24) at differentfunctional lengths depending on which of the columns of snaps are used.

For example, FIG. 23 illustrates the reusable diaper 400 having thecorner tab shown in FIG. 22. In this example, the corner tab 417 isreleasably attached via the outermost columns of snap members, which aresnapped to corresponding male snap members 423, 425 respectively withinforward and rearward pockets 403, 405 of the reusable diaper 400. Thisprovides the corner tab 416 with the longest of the functional lengthoptions provide by the columns of snap members 431, 433.

By way of comparison, FIG. 24 illustrates the reusable diaper 400 withthe corner tab 417 releasably attached via the corner tab's innermostcolumns of snap members. In this example then, the corner tab 417 hasthe shortest of the functional length options. This, in turn, alsoreduces the diaper's functional waist size and leg opening size ascompared to FIG. 23.

As shown in FIGS. 23 and 24, the corner tab 417 includes a lower curvedportion that defines part of the generally curved leg opening, such thatreducing the functional length of the corner tab 417 also reduces theleg opening size. Also shown in FIG. 24, the top and bottom rows of snapmembers along the diaper's forward portion have been snapped together,which thereby further reduces the diaper's functional waist size, legopening size, and rise or crotch length as compared to that shown inFIG. 23. Accordingly, the corner tab 417 thus allows for adjustment andtailoring of the diaper size to the wearer, for example, to provide arelatively snug fit about the waist and leg openings of the wearer(e.g., infant, toddler, adult, etc.).

In addition to what is shown in FIGS. 23 and 24, the corner tab 417 maybe releasable attached to the diaper 400 using other combinations of thecolumns of snap members 431, 433. In this exemplary way, the waist sizeand leg opening size of the diaper 400 may thus be adjusted withouthaving to completely remove and interchange corner tabs.

The pockets 403, 405 of the reusable diaper 400 may be substantially thesame as or similar to the pockets 303, 305 of reusable diaper 300described above. For example, the pockets 404, 405 may also beconfigured to be substantially impervious to liquids, such thatpositioning of the end portions 419, 421 of the corner tabs 417 thereinhelps inhibit wicking of liquid through the pockets 403, 405 and intothe corner tabs 417. The pockets 403, 405 may be configured to be deeperwith a sufficient depth so as to allow the end portions 419, 421 of thecorner tab 417 to be inserted farther into the respective pockets 403,405 to thereby allow the innermost columns of snap members to beinserted into the pockets 403, 405 for being snapped into the snapmembers 423, 425 within the pockets 403, 405.

In addition to, or as an alternative to, the corner tabs providingdifferent attachment options, the pockets may instead or additionallyinclude different attachment options. For example, the pockets 403, 405may include more than one column of snap members to thereby allow thefunctional length of the corner tab 417 to be changed depending on whichcolumn of snap members within the pockets 403, 405 is used to attach thecorner tab 417.

In this illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 22-24, the snap members areplastic in this example. Alternatively, the snap members can be formedfrom other materials, which are preferably relatively lightweight anddurable to withstand repeated laundry cycles.

The corner tab's first end portion 419 includes two columns of threespaced-apart female snap members 431, while the second end portion 421includes two columns of four spaced-apart female snap members 433.Alternative embodiments may include corner tabs that include more orless snap options and/or snap members in other arrangements than what isshown in FIG. 22. For example, another embodiment may include male snapmembers on the corner tab and the female snap members within the pocketsof the diaper. As another example embodiment, the corner tab and pocketsmay each have both male and female snap members. Additional examplesinclude corner tabs with more or less columns and/or rows of snapmembers than that shown in FIG. 22. Still further embodiments mayinclude a wide range of other suitable fastening means or fasteningsystems besides snaps, such as adhesives, buttons, clasps, Velcro® hookand loop closures, magnets, elastic straps, adjustable straps,combinations thereof, etc. Still yet further embodiments may include oneof the end portions of the corner tab fixedly attached within a pocketand/or a corner tab that is foldable over itself to reduce thefunctional length of the corner tab.

The corner tab 417 may be resiliently stretchable to permit someadjustability to the functional waist size of the reusable diaper asdefined by the first and second waist portions. In some embodiments, thecorner tab 417 may be formed from 95% polyester and 5% Lycra, whichallows the corner tab 417 to be stretchable and to maintain a flatprofile when stretched or unstretched. Alternatively, the corner tab 417may be formed using other suitable materials.

Other aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods, such asmethods of using any one or more of the various reusable diapers (e.g.,100, 200, 300, 400, etc.) disclosed herein. In an exemplary embodiment,a method generally includes removing at least one corner tab from adiaper and attaching at least one different corner tab that is longer orshorter than the removed corner tab. In another exemplary embodiment, amethod generally includes selecting at least one corner tab from aplurality of differently sized corner tabs, and attaching the selectedcorner tab to a diaper. In a further exemplary embodiment, a methodgenerally includes changing a size of a diaper by detaching at least oneend portion of a corner tab and reattaching the end portion of thecorner tab to the diaper such that the functional length of the cornertab is different. Accordingly, these exemplary method embodiments thusallow the size of the diaper to be changed or tailored to the intendeddiaper wearer (e.g., infant, toddler, adult, etc.).

In another exemplary embodiment, a method generally includes positioningat least one liquid-absorbent insert through at least one slit oropening into at least one pocket of a reusable diaper. The method mayfurther include closing at least one flap to substantially cover the atleast one slit or opening, whereby the at least one flap inhibitscontact between the diaper wearer and the at least one liquid-absorbentinsert and/or inhibits the inadvertent removal of the at least oneliquid-absorbent insert from the at least one pocket.

In some embodiments, the method may include opening the at least oneflap to thereby expose the at least one slit or opening and allow accessto the at least one pocket. The method may include removing at least oneliquid-absorbent insert from the at least one pocket out through the atleast one slit or opening. After laundering or washing the diaper, atleast one replacement liquid-absorbent insert may be positioned throughthe at least one slit into the at least one pocket. As another example,a method may include removing the reusable diaper from a wearer beforeopening the at least one flap, removing the at least oneliquid-absorbent insert, washing or laundering the diaper and theliquid-absorbent insert, and positioning the liquid-absorbent insertwithin the pocket.

In some embodiments, a method may further comprise selectively adjustinga functional waist size of the reusable diaper to a wearer, bystretching corner regions of a first waist portion of the reusablediaper, and then releasably attaching tabs associated with the cornerregions to a second waist portion of the reusable diaper. In somepreferred embodiments, the tabs may be releasably attached to the secondwaist portion by using hook-and-loop fasteners. Additional embodiments,however, may alternatively comprise snaps, buttons, adhesives, magnets,combinations thereof, etc.

Numerical dimensions and values are provided herein for illustrativepurposes only. The particular dimensions and values provided are notintended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

Spatially relative terms, such as “inner,” “outer,” “beneath”, “below”,“lower”, “above”, “upper” and the like, may be used herein for ease ofdescription to describe one element or feature's relationship to anotherelement(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatiallyrelative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations ofthe device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depictedin the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turnedover, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements orfeatures would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features.Thus, the example term “below” can encompass both an orientation ofabove and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptorsused herein interpreted accordingly.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularexample embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As usedherein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” may be intended toinclude the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicatesotherwise. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “including,” and“having,” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of statedfeatures, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, butdo not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features,integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groupsthereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described hereinare not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance inthe particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specificallyidentified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood thatadditional or alternative steps may be employed.

When an element or layer is referred to as being “on”, “engaged to”,“connected to” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may bedirectly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element orlayer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast,when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly engagedto”, “directly connected to” or “directly coupled to” another element orlayer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Otherwords used to describe the relationship between elements should beinterpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directlybetween,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein,the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more ofthe associated listed items.

Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein todescribe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections,these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should notbe limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguishone element, component, region, layer or section from another region,layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numericalterms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearlyindicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region,layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element,component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachingsof the example embodiments.

Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will bethorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled inthe art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples ofspecific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thoroughunderstanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will beapparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not beemployed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many differentforms and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of thedisclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes,well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are notdescribed in detail.

The disclosure herein of particular values and particular ranges ofvalues for given parameters are not exclusive of other values and rangesof values that may be useful in one or more of the examples disclosedherein. Moreover, it is envisioned that any two particular values for aspecific parameter stated herein may define the endpoints of a range ofvalues that may be suitable for the given parameter. The disclosure of afirst value and a second value for a given parameter can be interpretedas disclosing that any value between the first and second values couldalso be employed for the given parameter. Similarly, it is envisionedthat disclosure of two or more ranges of values for a parameter (whethersuch ranges are nested, overlapping or distinct) subsume all possiblecombination of ranges for the value that might be claimed usingendpoints of the disclosed ranges.

The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided forpurposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to beexhaustive or to limit the invention. Individual elements or features ofa particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particularembodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be usedin a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described.The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to beregarded as a departure from the invention, and all such modificationsare intended to be included within the scope of the invention.

1. A reusable diaper comprising: a forward waist portion; a rearwardwaist portion; at least one corner tab releasably attachable to theforward and rearward waist portions, such that the corner tab isdetachable and completely separable from the diaper; and at least onepocket substantially impervious to liquids, and configured to receivetherein at least a portion of the corner tab when the forward andrearward waist portions are releasably attached by the corner tab;whereby the positioning of the portion of the corner tab in the pockethelps inhibit wicking of liquid through the pocket and into the cornertab.
 2. The reusable diaper of claim 1, wherein: the at least one pocketincludes a first pocket disposed in a first lateral side portion of theforward waist portion, and a second pocket disposed in a first lateralside portion of the rearward waist portion; and the at least one cornertab includes a first corner tab having first and second opposite endportions releasably attachable to the respective forward and rearwardwaist portions within the respective first and second pockets.
 3. Thereusable diaper of claim 2, wherein: the at least one pocket furtherincludes a third pocket disposed in a second lateral side portion of theforward waist portion, and a fourth pocket disposed in a second lateralside portion of the rearward waist portion; and the at least one cornertab further includes a second corner tab having first and secondopposite end portions releasably attachable to the respective forwardand rearward waist portions within the respective third and fourthpockets.
 4. The reusable diaper of claim 1, wherein: the at least onepocket includes first, second, third, and fourth pockets; and the atleast one corner tab includes: a first corner tab having opposite endportions releasably attachable in the respective first and secondpockets; and a second corner tab having opposite end portions releasablyattachable in the respective third and fourth pockets.
 5. The reusablediaper of claim 1, wherein the at least one corner tab is resilientlystretchable and/or foldable over itself to thereby permit adjustabilityto a functional waist size of the reusable diaper as defined by theforward and rearward waist portions when releasably attached by thecorner tab.
 6. The reusable diaper of claim 1, wherein: the at least onecorner tab includes at least one fastener; the at least one pocketincludes at least one fastener therein such that the corner tab'sfastener is releasably attachable to the fastener within the pocket. 7.The reusable diaper of claim 6, wherein the fasteners comprise one ormore rows and/or columns of spaced apart fasteners on the corner taband/or within the pocket, whereby the snaps permit adjustability to afunctional waist size of the reusable diaper as defined by the forwardand rearward waist portions when releasably attached by the corner tab.8. The reusable diaper of claim 6, wherein the at least one corner tabincludes a plurality of fasteners spaced apart along a length of atleast one end portion of the corner tab, and the at least one pocket isconfigured to receive the end portion of the corner tab therein, therebyproviding a plurality of attachment options that allow a user to adjusta functional length of the corner tab and thereby change a size of thediaper without having to completely remove the corner tab from thediaper.
 9. The reusable diaper of claim 1, further comprising: an outershell configured to be substantially liquid-impervious and definingfirst and second interior pockets along the respective forward andrearward waist portions; and a liquid-absorbent pad having first andsecond opposite end portions releasably attachable to the outer shellwithin the first and second interior pockets, such that theliquid-absorbent pad is detachable and completely separable from thediaper.
 10. The reusable diaper of claim 1, wherein the corner tab isformed of resiliently stretchable material comprising polyester andLYCRA spandex, which material permits the corner tab to maintain a flatprofile when stretched or unstretched.
 11. The reusable diaper of claim1: wherein the at least one pocket includes: a first closed end pocketdisposed in a first lateral side portion of the forward waist portion; asecond closed end pocket disposed in a first lateral side portion of therearward waist portion; a third closed end pocket disposed in a secondlateral side portion of the forward waist portion; and a fourth closedend pocket disposed in a second lateral side portion of the rearwardwaist portion; wherein the at least one corner tab includes: a firstcorner tab having first and second opposite end portions havingfasteners releasably attachable to fasteners within the respective firstand second pockets; and a second corner tab having first and secondopposite end portions having fasteners releasably attachable tofasteners within the respective third and fourth pockets; wherein thefirst and second corner tab define part of a generally curved right andleft leg openings, respectively of the diaper when releasably attachedto the forward and rearward waist portions.
 12. The reusable diaper ofclaim 11, wherein the at least one corner tab further comprises: a thirdcorner tab having first and second opposite end portions havingfasteners releasably attachable to fasteners within the respective firstand second pockets, such that the third corner tab is interchangeablewith the first corner tab; and a fourth corner tab having first andsecond opposite end portions having fasteners releasably attachable tofasteners within the respective third and fourth pockets, such that thefourth corner tab is interchangeable with the second corner tab; whereinthe third and fourth corner tabs are sized differently than the firstand second corner tabs to thereby permit adjustability to a size of theright and left leg openings and/or a functional waist size of thereusable diaper as defined by the forward and rearward waist portions.13. A reusable diaper comprising: a forward waist portion; a rearwardwaist portion; first and second sets of corner tabs releasablyattachable to the forward and rearward waist portions, such that thesecond set of corner tabs is interchangeable with the first set ofcorner tabs, the second set of corner tabs sized differently than thefirst set of corner tabs such that: the diaper has a first size when theforward and rearward waist portions are releasably attached by the firstset of corner tabs; and the diaper has a second size different than thefirst size when the forward and rearward waist portions are releasablyattached by the second set of corner tabs.
 14. The reusable diaper ofclaim 13, wherein the corner tabs define portions of the waist and legopenings of the diaper when releasably attached to the forward andrearward waist portions, such that the interchanging the first andsecond sets of corner tabs changes the size of the waist and legopenings of the diaper.
 15. The reusable diaper of claim 13, wherein thediaper includes more than two sets of corner tabs having differentsizes.
 16. The reusable diaper of claim 13, further comprising pockets,and wherein the corner tabs have end portions releasably attachable tothe forward and rearward waist portions within the pockets.
 17. Thereusable diaper of claim 16, wherein the corner tabs include fastenersand the pockets include fasteners therein, such that the fasteners ofthe corner tabs are releasably attachable to corresponding fasteners inthe pockets.
 18. The reusable diaper of claim 16, wherein the fastenerscomprises one or more rows and/or columns of spaced apart snaps tothereby permit adjustability to the size of the diaper.
 19. The reusablediaper of claim 16, wherein at least one of the corner tabs includes aplurality of fasteners spaced apart along a length of at least one endportion of the corner tab, and at least one of the pockets is configuredto receive the end portion having the plurality of fasteners, therebyproviding a plurality of attachment options that allow a user to adjusta functional length of the corner tab and thereby change a size of thediaper without having to completely remove the corner tab from thediaper.
 20. The reusable diaper of claim 13, wherein the corner tabs areformed of resiliently stretchable material comprising polyester andLYCRA spandex, which material permits the corner tabs to maintain a flatprofile when stretched or unstretched.
 21. The reusable diaper of claim13, further comprising: an outer shell configured to be substantiallyliquid-impervious and defining first and second interior pockets alongthe respective forward and rearward waist portions; and aliquid-absorbent pad having first and second opposite end portionsreleasably attachable to the outer shell within the first and secondinterior pockets, such that the liquid-absorbent pad is detachable andcompletely separable from the diaper.
 22. A reusable diaper comprising:a forward waist portion; a first pocket disposed in a lateral sideportion of the forward waist portion; and a second pocket disposed in anopposite lateral side portion of the forward waist portion; a rearwardwaist portion; a third pocket disposed in a lateral side portion of therearward waist portion and a fourth pocket disposed in an oppositelateral side portion of the rearward waist portion; first and secondpairs of corner tabs each having front and back end portions releasablyattachable to the respective forward and rearward waist portions withinthe respective first, second, third, and fourth pockets, such that thesecond pair of corner tabs is interchangeable with the first pair ofcorner tabs, the second pair of corner tabs sized differently than thefirst pair of corner tabs; wherein the corner tabs define portions ofthe waist and leg openings of the diaper when releasably attached to theforward and rearward waist portions, such that interchanging the firstand second pairs of corner tabs changes the size of the waist and legopenings of the diaper.